SV Health Investors, a healthcare and life sciences-focused private investment firm, announced the acquisition of EpiVax, a Providence, Rhode Island-based bioanalytical contract research organization specializing in immunogenicity risk assessment for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
Founded in 1998, EpiVax has more than 25 years of experience in pre-clinical drug development and serves as a scientific advisor to life sciences clients. The company provides predictive analytical software and in vitro laboratory services designed to identify safety and efficacy risks early in the drug development process, helping reduce timelines and R&D costs.
The transaction represents a new platform investment for SV Health Investors, building on its experience in outsourced pharmaceutical services. The firm has previously invested in companies such as Adimab, Clario, Celerion, and Leiters, and aims to leverage its sector expertise and network to support EpiVax’s continued growth.
SV Health Investors emphasized that the acquisition aligns with its strategy of partnering with founders and management teams to scale healthcare businesses. The firm plans to provide capital, strategic guidance, and access to its broader life sciences ecosystem while maintaining EpiVax’s culture and customer-focused approach.
Following the acquisition, EpiVax is expected to expand its capabilities, including the launch of advanced computational tools, cell-based assay applications, and broader analytical consulting services to support global pharmaceutical and biotech clients.
Support: Morgan Lewis & Bockius served as legal advisor to SV Health Investors, while Foley & Lardner served as legal advisor to EpiVax.
KEY QUOTES:
“This partnership marks an important next chapter for EpiVax and reflects SV Health Investors’ confidence in our leadership team, differentiated capabilities, and scientific expertise. We are proud of EpiVax’s reputation as an industry leader, and we are confident that SVHI is the right partner to take the company forward.”
Annie De Groot, MD, Founder of EpiVax
“EpiVax has demonstrated exceptional growth – and we are excited to support the management team with strategic guidance, capital, and access to our life sciences ecosystem, while preserving the company’s culture and customer-first approach.”
A.J. Rossi, Partner at SV Health Investors
“The collaboration with SVHI strengthens EpiVax’s position as a leader in immunogenicity risk assessment, accelerating our growth and science-driven innovation, while enhancing our ability to support global pharma and biotech partners in improving risk and resource management and more efficiently developing regulatory-ready strategies.”
Rich-Henry Schabowsky, PhD, JD, CEO of EpiVax
